Sounds & Vocal Behavior

Audio by Lance A. M. Benner

The shrike is not known for the beauty of its vocal repertoire, but it does have an interesting variety of sharp clicks, weak peeps, harsh rattles and even some musical notes. In the spring, a male’s song consists of short trills or combinations of notes that vary in rhythm, pitch and quality. Both sexes have a territory song, which is similar to the spring mating song. Shrikes will give a harsh screech or bzeek call when they spot an intruder or predator.